Date: October 29, 2012Writers Name: Rosey Denise WhiteTitle: It’s Not Just a Cliché’: Reading is Fundamental!

Reading is a community survival tool important for all of us at every stage in our lives. Many overlook the importance of reading, and are instead comfortable using technology as the main informational source. There is no secret why tablets, IPHONES, and the tech industry are very profitable – all provide quick, easy and popular tools for accessing information. Who has time to read when they can get everything they need using a trendy toy?

This is the age of technology and the television has also become a modern teacher of sorts. We are spoiled by the visual images we see, rushing to watch so and so’s new reality TV show. We are even obsessive in taping our favorite programs. I recall the days when “regular” television was free. Now, cable has become the new normal, causing regular T.V. to become a thing of the past. Consider all of the money we waste these days simply to be entertained versus what we invest in knowledge. Many adults haven’t visited a bookstore or read a book outside of college in years. But, the majority of Americans own and watch television regularly in their homes. Something is wrong with this picture because reading impacts everything that we do. A regular habit of reading not only provides information, but it also enhances communication skills. Listen intently to the ideas and words used by others. You can often tell if someone is regularly engaged in literacy, just by the tone of their conversation. Adults who read are able to explore new concepts or ideas. These critical thinking tools help to further our individual purpose, business goals and even spiritual needs.

Reading helps to stimulate the imagination in both adults and kids. Through a consistent habit of reading, we are able to experience the world using creative measures. It is especially important to cultivate the benefits of literacy to the youth early on in life. Parents are encouraged to read to their children often, even while in the womb, to create an unbreakable parental bond. School aged kids are likely to develop strong reading habits when they see adults around them engaged in these activities. Reading also makes room for a child to increase vocabulary skill sets. With a thorough understanding of words, a child is able to decipher information easier leading to a positive school experience. Both adults and children alike benefit from enriched skills through reading. Knowledge is indeed power! Reading is about so much more than curling up with a good book. Reading is essentially gathering information. Everyone should take time to read the ingredients in the foods they eat. We all should take time to research common and unfamiliar words, to learn the true root of its meaning. People of all backgrounds, ages and beliefs will benefit from reading warning labels, street signs, directions, and instructions. Reading is a link to valuable information that we might otherwise overlook. Reading is fundamental on every level. Reading is indeed power!